The rich architectural heritage of the north eastern tip of Kent is the focus of this new SAVE report. The report takes a fresh look at the Isle of Thanet, with its towns of Margate, Ramsgate and Broadstairs, assessing the state of the area’s historic buildings and identifying the challenges ahead.

With essays from leading historians and commentators, and stunning new photography from Paul Barker, Saving Thanet: The Architecture of Kent’s Forgotten Coast tells the story of area through its buildings - charting its rise from rural backwater to fashionable seaside destination, including its decline during the later 20th century and its recent revival - energised by a new high-speed rail link and the opening of the Turner Contemporary gallery.

The report includes a section on the successful Townscape Heritage Initiative programme in Margate and Ramsgate and ends with a selection of some of the many buildings still at risk in the area - including entertainment complexes, institutions, places of worship and private houses - reflecting the distinct phases of Thanet’s development.

William Palin, Secretary of SAVE Britain’s Heritage, said: ‘Thanet brims with architectural delights - both splendid set pieces and curious one-offs. After decades in the shadows, this special stretch of Kentish coast is finding its voice once more, but there are still dozens of buildings across the district in desperate need of care and attention. We hope that our report will inspire people to visit the area, appreciate its rich architecture and take action to protect it.’

For more press information please contact Rhiannon Tracy on 020 7253 3500 or by email.

NOTES TO EDITORS

Saving Thanet is supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund. It is edited by Amicia de Moubray and includes articles by Clive Aslet, Timothy Brittain-Catlin, Stephen Davies, Nick Dermott, Stephen Fuller, Ruth Guilding, Peter Inch, Anya Matthews and Amicia de Moubray. It will be published on 7 October 2011 priced £15 (£13 to Friends of SAVE).